The Nigerian Online Media Alliance (NOMA), in collaboration with the International Society of Substance Use Professionals (ISSUP), Nigeria, will commemorate the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking with a high-level conference aimed at promoting responsible journalism and strengthening national efforts against substance abuse.
The conference, themed "Responsible Media, Drug-Free Nigeria: The Journalist's Role in Prevention and Advocacy," is scheduled to hold on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba, Lagos, located at 8 Harvey Road, Yaba, Lagos.
The event will be hosted by Theresa Moses, Chairperson of the Nigerian Online Media Alliance (NOMA), who is expected to lead discussions on the vital role of the media in combating drug abuse, promoting accurate reporting, and driving public awareness on substance use prevention.
The conference will bring together renowned experts, policymakers, media professionals and stakeholders in the health and security sectors to explore practical strategies for addressing drug abuse through responsible journalism and sustained public advocacy.
Among the distinguished speakers expected at the event are Dr. Olugbenga Owoeye, Medical Director of the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba; Mr. Babajide Kolade-Otitoju, Director of News, Television Continental (TVC); Dr. Olajumoke Koyejo (FMCPsych, ICAP), President of the International Society of Substance Use Professionals (ISSUP), Nigeria; Prince Joseph Idiong, Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Nigerian Exporters (ANE); and Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd.), Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Organisers said the conference is designed to deepen collaboration between the media, healthcare professionals, policymakers and law enforcement agencies in addressing the growing challenge of substance abuse in Nigeria. Discussions will focus on ethical reporting, public education, prevention strategies and the media's responsibility in shaping public perception and influencing behavioural change.
The programme forms part of activities marking the United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking and is expected to attract journalists, editors, media executives, students, public health practitioners, government officials, civil society organisations and other stakeholders committed to building a drug-free society.
According to the organisers, the conference will provide participants with valuable insights into the evolving drug abuse landscape in Nigeria while equipping media professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to report substance-related issues responsibly and effectively.
For sponsorship, participation and further enquiries, interested individuals and organisations may contact the organisers through 08034499132, 09034242439, or 08165322757.
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